Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Emmett Jerome Vaeth, Sr. “Jerry”, a 33-year resident of Annapolis and previously of Davidsonville, MD, passed away on February 7, 2023.  He was 94 years old.  Born on December 3, 1928 in Baltimore, MD to the late Edward and Helen Vaeth, Jerry was the fourth of six children.  He graduated from Catonsville High School and attended Baltimore Junior College before joining the U.S. Army in 1951.  Stationed in Korea, Jerry was promoted to the rank Staff Sergeant and received the Occupational Medal (Japan), Korean Service Medal with 1 Bronze Star, Combat Infantry Badge and United Nations Service Medal.  Jerry enjoyed a career in industrial sales.  He worked primarily for the Wolverine Corporation selling copper tubing to companies such as GE and Amana for use in air conditioners.

Jerry was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Davidsonville, the Heritage Harbour Community Association, American Legion and Fleet Reserve.  He enjoyed boating, reading, golfing and was a card-playing aficionado who enjoyed regular games with groups and friends.  Jerry was fond of family gatherings especially spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jerry was preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, Mary Patricia “Pat” (Resau) Vaeth who passed away in 2016; his son, Martin Edward Vaeth who died in 2005; his grandson, Brian Highsmith who died in 2015 and his five siblings, Mary Louise Wrightson, Howard and Edward Vaeth, Helen Muth and Nancy Halthaus.  Jerry is survived by two sons, Emmett J. Vaeth, Jr. “Jay” and his fiancé, Margaret of Berlin, MD and William Brian Vaeth of Edgewater, MD; his daughter, Nancy V. Rooney and her husband, Patrick of Bridgeville, DE; four grandsons, Jared (Sara), Jeremy, Michael and Carson Vaeth; three granddaughters, Courtney (Kenny) Mazzone, Katelynn (Joseph) Wilson and Kristin Vaeth; and six great-grandchildren.

Friends are invited to celebrate Jerry’s life with his family from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, February 23 at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD.  Mass of Resurrection will be offered at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 24 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 West Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD 21035.  The Mass will be live streamed on Holy Family's Facebook page by clicking <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064429102382">HERE</a>. Inurnment will follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Family Catholic Church at the address above.  
Online condolences and tributes may be made by using the memories tab on the left.

Anna Lane Washington passed away on February 7, 2023 in Annapolis, MD.  She was born on July 9, 1929 in Belfast, North Ireland to William and Annie Lane.  Anna had four siblings: Billy Lane, Joe Lane, Mary Copeland, and Eileen Doran.  Anna survived the German bombing of Belfast during World War II.  In her young twenties, Anna visited an aunt in New York City under a work visa.  When the work visa period ended, she returned to Ireland. A few years later, she returned to the U.S. on a new work visa, once again working in New York City. The department store where she worked opened a new store in Philadelphia, PA and asked Anna to help open the new store. It was in Philadelphia where Anna met Bud Washington, freshly home from serving overseas in Japan with the U.S. Navy. After a brief courtship, they were married in October 1957.  The two moved to Bowie MD in 1965.   Anna and Bud lived in Bowie until 1977 and then moved to Davidsonville, MD.  In 1990, Bud retired from AT&T, and the two retired to Chestertown, MD.  Anna was happiest when surrounded by a house full of family.  Anna loved the holidays, when everyone could gather together.  She also loved when her family made a big fuss over her birthday.  She enjoyed listening to Irish music and was fond of an afternoon cocktail.  Anna laughed generously and enjoyed meeting new people and telling stories of her family and friends.  She was adored by everyone she met.  Anna was very generous, always having a gift in hand whether she was visiting you, or you were visiting her.  She was fearless, and feisty, even in her final days.  Anna loved the United States, but Ireland was her true home.   

Anna is survived by her husband of 65 years, Bud Washington; her three sons, Mark (Theresa) Washington, Gary Washington, and Craig (Jan) Washington.  Anna is also survived by her 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Mass of the Resurrection will be offered on Friday, April 14 at 11:00 am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 West Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD followed by a celebration of her rich and full life.

Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Please check back for Frank's full obituary.

Friends are invited to celebrate Frank’s life on Saturday, February 11th from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD.

Interment will be private.

Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Bernard H. Thuman Jr., 85, of Edgewater, Maryland passed away on February 6, 2023. Born on October 27, 1937 in Baltimore, to loving parents Bernard Sr. and Helena Thuman.

Bernard attended Holy Cross Elementary and graduated from Calvert Hall High School in Baltimore, going on to attend night school to earn an Associate’s Degree in Electrical Technology from Anne Arundel Community College. He also studied at Loyola University and Johns Hopkins University. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army Reserves. Bernard began developing his career skills long before college, entering the workforce at the age of 10. After serving in the Army Reserves, he began working for the Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. in Baltimore City as a draftsman in 1956, working his way up to several management positions in the Electrical Engineering Department, such as Public Works Coordinator and Supervisor of New Business Design to name a few. After retiring, he continued to work for BGE, which became Constellation Energy, until December of 2003, resulting in a 47-year career with the company.

Bernie was very active in the community. He was one of the founders of the Peninsula Athletic League (PAL), where he served as an Officer and was its first Commissioner of Baseball. His team went on to win the Annapolis City Championship. He also assisted with PAL youth football. He coached youth basketball at St. Mary’s and the Annapolis Recreation Center for many years. He was also a member of the Touchdown Club. He was active in fundraising for St. Mary’s parish and sports teams, and the construction of St. John Neumann Church. He was a member of the Annapolis Lions Club, and served as President, as well as holding numerous other board positions including Vice President.
 
Bernie’s work in the community did not go unnoticed. He was the recipient of many community awards and accolades. Under the governorship of Martin O’Malley, he was presented with a “Governor’s Volunteer Services Certificate”. He was also presented with an “Anne Arundel County Executives Citation of Appreciation” from county executive John Leopold. Bernie was recognized for his leadership and dedication multiple times by the Lions Club, receiving the “Lions Club Certificate of Appreciation” for invaluable services and cooperation, the “Certificate of Appreciation for Exceptional Leadership” as the first Vice President, “Lion of the Year” for outstanding service, loyalty, and devotion to Lionism, and a “Testimonial of Services Appreciation” as President of the Annapolis Lions Club.
 
He was also named “Volunteer of the Year” by the South County Senior Center. During his career with BGE, he was commended for outstanding workmanship by the company, including recognition of outstanding leadership as Chairman of the “Miss Utility Protection Committee”, and was presented with the “Gift of Life Blood Donor Award” in partnership with the Central Maryland Chapter of the Red Cross for donating 3 gallons of blood during his employment.

After hearing a woman shouting “Help me! Get my babies!”, he came upon a burning building. He entered without considering personal risk, and brought 3 children out as it was collapsing upon them. He re-entered upon her request to save another child, who unbeknownst to her had already been saved. The second floor started to collapse on top of him, but he escaped. He successfully returned the children safely to their mother. He never received any formal recognition for it, but was recognized for his efforts in a letter sent by the nuns that witnessed the event.
 
When he wasn’t volunteering, working, and contributing to the community, Bernie found enjoyment in golfing, softball, and basketball. He was a member of the Yankee Rebels Drum and Bugle Corps. and loved the music of Frank Sinatra.

In addition to his parents, Bernard is preceded in death by his sisters, Helen, Mary, Catherine, Esther, and Frances, and brother, Rev. Joseph Thuman, SJ. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Christine; devoted children, Tricia (Doug) Borrebach of Annapolis, Bernie (Genny) Thuman III of Annapolis, and Greg (Houfei Yang) of Texas; grandchildren, Drew (Becky), Jordan, Liz, and Katie, and great-grandson, Nathaniel, son of Drew and Becky. He was known as “Uncle Bernie” to countless nieces and nephews, and brother-in-law to Charlie, Tom, and Del.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Bernie’s life on Thursday, February 16, 2023 at 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 Bestgate Road, Annapolis, MD 21401.

Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

STEVE ROSS was born November 27, 1951 to the late Samuel Jackson and Minnie Eula Ross in Gaffney, South Carolina. Steve gave his life to the Lord at a young age when his mother would teach Sunday School in her living room. The Lord called him home on Sunday, February 5, 2023.

Steve moved to the Washington, DC at a very young age with his family and received his education in the Washington, DC public school system. He graduated from McKinley Technical High School before attending Maryland University for two years before leaving to care for his family when he found out his wife at the time, Anne Rone Ross was pregnant with their son, Steve B. Ross. Anne transitioned to be with the Lord in the year 1979. 

Later, Steve married Saleema Aldridge Ross June 9, 1983 whom he met while attending McKinley Technical High School in Washington, DC. Together they raised their sons Steve B. Ross and Robert Mack in the Washington DC area before moving to Fort Washington, Maryland in 1998. 

Coming from a family with generations of entrepreneurship, it was only natural for Steve to begin pursuing various entrepreneurial ventures including his own ice cream truck, a moving service, and a driving service to name a few. These ventures turned into him starting his own landscaping business where it was evident. Steve had a natural talent to run and succeed in business. He cut grass, managed his customers, did his own bookkeeping without the use of computers AND without mistake or fail. He was very successful building up generational wealth for his family while leaving a legacy of hard work and taking care of family. He just retired from landscaping at the end of the 2022 season. Steve also worked for the Tifereth Israel for over 25 years before retiring in 2018. He became the Maintenance Supervisor succeeding his father Samuel Ross, Sr. in the early 2000s. 

Preceding Steve in death are his wife Saleema Ross, parents Samuel and Minnie Ross, brother Fletcher, sisters Annie Ruth and Shirley, and niece Lecia Ross. Left to cherish his memory and continue his legacy are sons Steve Boody Ross and Robert Mack, brothers Samuel Ross Jr. (Theodora-D), Johnny Ross (Sandra), Billy Ross (Carolyn-D). Sister Betty Patterson (William), mother-in-law Delores Aldridge, sisters-in-law Jacqueline Ross, Aleema Aldridge and Dorothy Ross, three grandsons Kavon Jackson, Malachi McFarland, and Semajah Rawlings, one granddaughter Samara Wallace, 2 great-granddaughters Kimora Jackson, Kylie McFarland, Harlem Wallace, Ricardo Wallace, work son and cousin Anthony “Tony” Craft, 4 great aunts Terriza Jefferies, Alice Payne, Dorothy Nicholas and Delores Ross, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to Steve's Life Celebration on Friday, February 17, 2023, from 10 a.m. until the start of the funeral at 11 a.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Interment private at a later date. 

Relatives and friends are invited to Albert's Life Celebration on Tuesday and Wednesday, February 28 and March 1, 2023, from 2 to 8 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Mass of Christian Burial offered on Thursday, March 2, 2023 at 10 a.m. at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Silver Spring, MD.

Arrangements for Joan are private.  Online condolences and tributes can be made by using the memories tab on the left.

Ralph W. Ripperger, "Rip", a resident of Edgewater, MD for over 63 years, died on February 4, 2023, at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, MD.  Born November 4, 1926, in Washington, DC to the late Charles and Rosalie Ripperger, he served his country in the U.S. Navy. Ralph enjoyed a long career as an auto mechanic.  He was a longtime member of the American Legion Post 226 and loved entertaining at his home and spending time with his family.  Ralph also enjoyed volunteering his time at Anne Arundel Medical Center and his daily walks at the Annapolis Mall. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Melba "Billie" Ripperger.  Ralph is survived by his daughter, Gail Gobbel, and her husband, Henry of Edgewater, MD; a sister, Jean Rupard of North Beach, MD; a brother, Ralph Kissinger of Selbyville, DE; a granddaughter, Sheli Gobbel; a great-granddaughter, Kaydence Leach; and his dear friend, Jean Schurr.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in Ralph's name to Anne Arundel Medical Center, 2001 Medical Parkway, Annapolis MD 21401.  

A full obituary will be posted here soon.  Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on this page.

Elizabeth Jean “Betty” Wolcott (nee Vernosky), age 87, passed away on Saturday, February 4, 2023 in Annapolis, MD. Born on Christmas Day 1935 in Lyon Mountain, NY to the late Joseph and Bertha Brien Vernosky, Betty graduated from high school and attended cosmetology school in Albany, NY. She began her career as a cosmetologist in Plattsburgh, NY before moving, with her family, to Bowie, MD. She was active in St. Pius X Catholic Church where her daughters attended school.  Betty is survived by her husband of 61 years, George Wolcott; her daughters, Julie and Debbie, 6 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and 4 nieces. Mass of the Resurrection will be offered on Saturday, February 18 at 11 am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W. Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD. Holy Family will be live streaming the Mass on their Facebook page by visiting the link <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064429102382">HERE</a>. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Arthritis Foundation, PO Box 96280, Washington, DC 20077 or https://www.arthritis.org/honor-memorial-form. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Maitland “Missy” Minnix, age 74 and a longtime resident of the Eastern Shore and who previously lived in Annapolis, died February 3, 2023 in Denton, MD after a two year battle with cancer.  Born in Washington, DC on July 22, 1948 to Allen and Maitland Minnix, she graduated from Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School.  She worked for many years in the real estate industry, working for numerous local home builders and assisting in new home construction sales.  After leaving real estate, she then worked for Home Instead, providing in-home comfort care for seniors.  Missy was an avid fan of the Washington Redskins.  She loved making wreaths, hanging out with her grandkids and spending quality time with her sister.

Missy is survived by her daughters; Wendy (Shawn) Bowyer of Cavetown, MD, Courtney (Jeff) Higgins of Centreville, MD and Lindsay Wight of Denton; bonus daughters Karen (Tim) Poole of Fort Washington, MD and Lynn (Tom) Bradford of Round Hill, VA; siblings Alison (Wes) Fuhrman of East New Market, MD and Hunter (Barbara) Minnix of Birmingham, MI;  grandchildren Jayden and Jared Robinson, Jenner and Justin Higgins, Trey Rinaudot, Madisan McMahon and Lauren and Lindsey Bair; and great grandson Hudson.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Allen C. and Maitland Minnix, and her brother, Allen Clark Minnix, III.

Relatives and friends are invited to join in Missy’s life celebration on Friday, February 10 from 11AM until her memorial service begins at 12 noon, at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater.  Interment will be private.  


Relatives and friends are invited to Helen's Life Celebration on Thursday, February 16, 2023 from 9 a.m. until the start of the funeral service at 10 a.m. at Fort Washington Baptist Church, 11516 Fort Washington Rd., Fort Washington, MD 20744. Interment Cedar Hill Cemetery, Suitland, MD. 

Obituary:   Roger Ray Rambo

Roger Ray Ray Rambo, a resident of Annapolis, MD, passed away Thursday, February 2, 2023, at home with his family. He was born on August 17, 1948, in Corpus Christi, TX. The last 25 years of his life were spent living with his Niece, Meghan Rambo, and her family in Annapolis MD. Roger enjoyed being with his family and taking care of the family cats, feeding the deer, drawing, watching sports, and attending his great nephew's activities.  He also loved celebrating holidays, especially birthdays. Prior to Covid he attended the Annapolis Senior Center and participated over Zoom during the pandemic.  He also enjoyed attending St. Margaret's Church. Roger loved the Blue Angels and looked forward to their performances. He served in the Army but was a big fan of the Naval Academy.  Roger often commented on how lucky he was to be with his family and have a loving home in Annapolis.

Roger was predeceased by his mother Vena Ladora Mooney Rambo, and father Raymond Rex Rambo.  He is survived by his brothers, Rex H. Rambo of Annapolis, MD, and Robert T. Rambo, sister-in-law, Beverly Rambo, niece, Nicole Rambo, and nephew, Marc Rambo of Texas, and his niece Meghan Rambo of Annapolis, MD, and her children, Rex Flanagan and Ray Flanagan, and his niece, Lynne Faulkner of Kailua, HI, and her children, Austin Faulkner, Nicholas Faulkner, and Jack Faulkner.   

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Roger's life on Sunday, February 19. 2023 from 2 pm until 4 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD 21037. A funeral service will be held on Monday, February 20, 2023, at 11 am at St. Margarets Episcopal Church, 1601 Pleasant Plains Rd, Annapolis, MD 21409. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.


If you would like to leave a condolence for his family, please use the memories tab on this page.

A complete obituary will be available soon.

Arthur Joel Radice, Jr., "Joel", a 35-year resident of Annapolis, MD, and previously of Riva, MD, died of cancer on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, at the Rebecca Fortney Inpatient Care Center in Pasadena, MD.

He was born on July 18, 1941, in Oceanside, NY to the late Arthur Joel and Catherine Radice. Arthur graduated with a bachelor of science in electrical engineering and worked for the Department of Defense for 47 years.  He enjoyed cars, Christmas, and Department 56 ceramics.

Arthur is survived by his wife of 17 years, Margaret Anne Radice; four daughters, Susan Radice of Pasadena, MD, Anne Marie Green of Glen Burnie, MD, Margaret Wolf of Crofton, MD, and Elizabeth Douglass of Glen Burnie, MD; a brother, Robert Radice of Geneva, NY; and three grandchildren, John and Clair Wolf, Anthony Boyer. He was preceded in death by a grandchild, RJ Copas.

Family and Friends are invited to celebrate Arthur's life on Saturday, February 4, 2023, at 10 am, followed by a memorial service at 11 am at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD 21037. The interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to <a href="https://www.thymiccarcinomacenter.com/take-action">Thymic Carcinoma Center</a>; <a href="https://secure.advancement.georgetown.edu/s/1686/18/giving.aspx?sid=1686&gid=4&pgid=2844&cid=4226&dids=314.178.58.159.15.56.144&unit=11&appealcode=gfr099">Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center</a>, or <a href="https://donate3.cancer.org/?campaign=default">American Cancer Society</a>.

A graveside service will be held for Charlie on Thursday, February 9, 2023, at 1:45 pm at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery, 1122 Sunrise Beach Road, Crownsville, MD 21032.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to SPCA of Anne Arundel County, 1815 Bay Ridge Road, Annapolis, MD 21403, or online <a href = "https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/AACSPCA">here</a>


Please take a moment and leave a condolence for the family by using the memories tab on this page.

Julia Marie Bylkas “Judy”, 74, a 3-year resident of Annapolis, MD and previously of Severna Park, MD passed away on February 1, 2023 after a 4-year battle with leukemia. She was born on May 12, 1948 to the late Henry and Madeline Kopf in Brooklyn, NY.

Judy graduated from St. Edmund High School, going on to have a career as a cafeteria manager through BISM at the Social Security Administration. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist and TOPS. She enjoyed swimming, blackjack, travelling, the beach, macramé, sewing, and bowling.

In addition to her parents, Judy is preceded in death by her brother, Bernard Kopf and sister, Rita Kopf. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Steve Bylkas of Annapolis; daughters, Michelle Byers (Mike) of Crofton, Reneé Zerfas of Crofton, and Stephanie Bylkas-Moore (George) of Baltimore; brothers, Thomas Kopf of Ft. Lauderdale, FL and Henry Kopf II of Cary, NC; sisters, Margaret Spink of Annapolis, Edna Klock of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and Mary Eichler of Corvallis, OR, and grandchildren, Stephen, Matthew, and Sarah Byers of Crofton, Corey and Drew Zerfas of Crofton, and Adelaide and Harriet Bylkas-Moore of Baltimore plus numerous nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to a funeral service on Thursday, February 9, 2023 at 10 am at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. The interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the <a href="https://www.lls.org/">Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Leukemia & Lymphoma Society | Blood Cancer Leaders | LLS</a> or to the <a href="https://crm.bloomerang.co/HostedDonation?ApiKey=pub_11d75f7b-2e32-11e9-9f3d-0aa640fb8062&WidgetId=6650880">Blind Industries and Services of Maryland</a>.

Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Rita Donovan, born Rita Rison December 22, 1917, died on Tuesday, January 31, 2023.

She grew up in Marbury, Maryland, one of ten children to Martha Elizabeth (Mattie) Bowie and William Edward Rison. 

After graduating from Lackey High School in nearby Indian Head, she moved to the big city, Washington, DC, hoping to start a new life. Rita worked in downtown DC for an early bank-credit card company and made the most of her opportunities after World War II broke out. After the war, she began a happy career with the Bricklayers union, and finally met and married her husband James (Dicky) Donovan. They bought a comfortable home in Friendly, Maryland, where they spent the rest of their lives.

Rita was very active in her church, St. Mary’s of Piscataway, mostly with the Sodality.

Dicky died in 1987, after battling Alzheimer’s for five years. Rita cared for him the whole time even though she was a little person and Dicky was six feet tall. After Dicky died, Rita was the “go-to person” for most of her family, helping out relatives often when they were in need. She helped care for her mother as she aged, as well as her oldest sister Mary.

Rita loved to travel and had many trips while working with the Bricklayers, including Western US, Canada and Hawaii. She took many junkets to New York, Florida, the Carolinas, New Orleans, New England, New Mexico and local theater and dinner gatherings with many ladies’ groups and with her sisters Marie and Henrietta. A favorite trip occurred when she bought two tour tickets to Europe, then went home to tell her husband that they were going! She had fond memories of Rome, Venice, and Paris.

A delightful person, she was a lot of fun to be with, and enjoyed many adventures, especially with her family. Her smile and laugh will be remembered by her many friends and her great nieces and nephews. A friend wrote her a poem that encapsulates her character best: “I could sail the waters of all the world, battle the wild and blue, but never find a friend to love like the friend I’ve found in you.”

She will be buried alongside her husband in the little cemetery at St. Mary’s church.

Relatives and friends are invited to Mrs. Donovan's Visitation and Rosary on Friday, February 10, 2023, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church of Piscataway, 13401 Piscataway Road, Clinton, MD. Interment following Mass in the Church Cemetery. 

Helen Bechas Johnson, 87, of Annapolis, MD, died on January 31, 2023 following a long battle with cancer.

Born and raised in Washington, DC  by her devoted Greek parents, Marianthe Bounatsas and Gus Bechas, Helen grew up watching her father run his popular D.C. Greek restaurant of the day at “5th & G”. Helen was always a dedicated and active member of the Greek communities wherever she lived.  She managed a successful real estate office in Atlanta, GA, early in her career and later managed the offices of several large patent law firms in DC. An avid skier, sailor, and world traveler, Helen relished adventure and new challenges.  Helen and her husband, Bill, traveled often with fellow Naval Academy alumnus, visiting Europe and the Mediterranean. Helen particularly enjoyed sailing among the Greek Isles and visiting her family that still remained in Greece. She also enjoyed spending time at her vacation homes in Ocean City and Rehoboth. Helen was an active member of the Corinthian Cruising Club* and as a lifelong member of the Greek Orthodox faith, Helen most recently attended Ss. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Annapolis.

In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Commander William “Bill” Johnson, whom she married in 1972, and her brothers, George, Peter, and Anastasios “Ernie” Bechas.

She is survived by her nieces, Cassandra, Vanessa, and Christina Bechas and Robin Risley; her nephews, Dean Bechas and Rick Risley and her cousins, Paul (Ginger), Kathy and David (Debbie) Bartin and Marguerite Heidenberg.

Friends are invited to celebrate Helen’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Friday, February 17 from 6 to 8 pm, where a prayer service will be held at Saturday, February 18 at 11 am. Contributions, in Helen’s memory, may be made to the Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122. 

Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

On the evening of January 31, 2023, Ronny passed away suddenly at his home as a result of a heart attack. He was 72 years old at the time of his passing.

Ronny was born on June 14, 1950 in Annapolis, MD. He was the second son of William E and Frances A Jones.

Ronny grew up on Conduit Street and attended Annapolis High School, where he was involved in many sports, primarily cross-country running and wrestling. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Administration from the University of Maryland. He was an avid runner for much of his life. 

Ronny had a passion for helping troubled youth and was dedicated as a case manager with the Maryland Department of Juvenile Justice. He was also the creator of the Neighborhood Youth Panel in Calvert County. He spent much of his time with troubled youth camping to encourage rehabilitation. 

He was a huge sports fan and could be found on many Friday evenings at the local high schools watching their games, or in his “man cave” watching any number of sports.

Ronny prized spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was well known by his family for his creation of the “Killer Butterfly”, where he would run around the house chasing his granddaughter listening to her laugh. Family dinners were also highly prized by him. Family was everything to him.

Ronny attended the Deale, MD branch of the Antioch Apostolic Church.

Ronny is preceded in death by his parents, William E Jones and Frances A Jones. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Linda K Jones, Daughter Kelly (Bill) Sutton, grandchildren Andrew (Evelyn) Sutton, Kerrie-Anne (Logan Simmers) Sutton, Daniel Sutton, and brother William F (Linda) Jones.

Friends are invited to celebrate Ronny’s life on Sunday, February 5, 2023 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD where a funeral service will be held on Monday, February 6 at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to be made to the <a href="https://donate.als.org/give/287064/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=jumppage">ALS Association</a> (Lou Gehrig’s Disease), 1300 Wilson Blvd Suite 600, Arlington, VA 22209.

Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Please check back for full obituary.

Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Sharon Ann Kelly, 61, a resident of Annapolis, MD, passed away on Sunday, January 29, 2023, at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore.

Born September 14, 1961 in Baltimore, MD to Ann Julia Rasinski and the late Wayne Rasinski, she was affectionately known as the Polish Princess. Sharon attended Archbishop Spalding High School, where she met her devoted husband of 41 years, Steve P. Kelly, Sr. The tradition of attending Spalding carried on through her children, oldest grandchild and will continue with her future grandchildren. 

Sharon loved Christmas and the snow as well as her family's mountain house. She also loved spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren. 

In addition to her mother and husband, Sharon is survived by her children, Stephen Patrick Kelly, Jr. and his wife, Kim, Erin Ann Geraghty and her husband, Mike, and Nicolle Elizabeth Engelmeyer and her husband, Eric; her six grandchildren, Tyler and Kayla Kelly and Brayden, Mason, Lily and Kelly Geraghty; her brother, Kenny Rasinski and many nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to celebrate Sharon’s life on Thursday, February 2 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm at St. Andrew by the Bay Catholic Church, 701 College Pkwy., Annapolis, MD, where Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Friday, February 3, at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in honor of Sharon Ann Kelly to <a href="https://www.ummsfoundation.org/site/Donation2?3001.donation=form1&idb=1816189937&df_id=3001&mfc_pref=T&3001.donation=root">University of Maryland Medical Center</a>, 110 South Paca Street, 9th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201 or <a href="https://ccharities.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1144">Cancer Comfort Angels</a>, PO Box 253, Chester, MD 21619.
Condolences may be made online by using the Memories tab on this page.

Edward Walter Dishman, “Ed”, 85, a resident of Lexington Park, MD, passed away on January 29, 2023, in Davidsonville, MD surrounded by his family

Ed was born on August 23, 1937, in Baltimore, MD to the late Edward and Mary Dishman. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from John Hopkins University. Ed worked as an engineer supporting the Navy’s Maritime Patrol Community for over 40 years with ARINC and RBC. He was known as “Mr. ECP” (Engineering Change Proposal) as he diligently worked to upgrade the P-3 aircraft throughout the Cold War and beyond.

Ed was a member of the Annapolis Fleet Reserve Club where he frequently enjoyed the annual boat shows and the deck on Ego Alley with family and friends. He was an avid athlete with a great sense of humor and enjoyed many sporting activities including sailing, softball, bowling, and golf.

Ed is survived by his wife of 25 years, Valerie Dishman, the mother of his children, Marge Dishman and his children, David Dishman and his wife CJ of Fayetteville, GA, Bob Dishman and his wife Tami of Riva, MD, Diane Saint Germain and her husband Paul of Centreville, VA and Sharon Cremen and her husband David of Manchester, MD, his stepchildren, Jennifer Overstreet of Great Mills, MD and Tre Overstreet and his wife Lyndsey of Crofton, MD, his brothers; Bruce Dishman and his wife Delores of Pasadena, MD, and Wayne Dishman and his wife Janis of Chocowinty, NC. Also survived by his 

17 grandchildren; Mitch Dishman and his wife Nikki, August Kade, Rustin Dishman, Brooks Dishman and his wife Abbi, Corbette Dishman, Ryan Dishman and his wife Rachel, Sydney and Ashlyn Dishman, Harmon, Carson, Harrison and Emerson Saint Germain, Morgan and Lauren  Cremen, Violet and Emmett Overstreet, 2 great-grandchildren, Heath and Nolen Dishman. He was preceded in death by one granddaughter, Madison Cremen.


A celebration of Ed’s life will be held at a later date. Please take a moment and leave the family a message by using the memories tab on this page.






Denise Hayward, of Prince Frederick, MD, passed away on January 28th, 2023. She was 62 years old.

Denise was born on May 29th, 1960, to the late Marcel and Charlotte Vigneault of Fort Washington, MD.

Denise was raised in a military family and traveled as a young child throughout the
United States to include, Texas, Connecticut, Virginia, Kansas, and finally Maryland. Later in life, she continued her travels and relocated to Pennsylvania, Texas, and South Carolina, before finally returning to Maryland in 2022.

Denise graduated from Friendly High School and attended the University of Connecticut, where she earned her bachelor’s degree.

Denise’s proudest achievement was her son Sean. Sean and Denise shared many things, including a passion for animals.

Along with her parents, Denise is predeceased by her son, Sean Hayward. Denise is survived by her three sisters, Michelle Weeks (Kirk) of Gaithersburg, MD, Gisele “Gigi” Raley (Walter) of White Plains, MD, Danielle Davis (Michael) of Pensacola, FL, her brother Joseph Vigneault of Lexington Park, MD, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

In addition to her large, immediate family, Denise had many lifelong friends from high school, college, and other walks of life, who were extended family. They were by her side, and always there to support her.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 7, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kalas
Funeral Home: 6160 Oxon Hill Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A Mass for Christian Burial will be offered at 11:00 a.m. on the following day, February 8, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Piscataway: 13405 Piscataway Road, Clinton, MD 20735.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the George Washington University ICU staff for their care and compassion for Denise and her family. Their acts of kindness will never be forgotten.

Obituaries

Jerry Vaeth

Anna Washington

Frank Simmons, Jr.

Bernard Thuman, Jr.

Steve Ross

Albert Deocampo

Joan Bieber

Ralph Ripperger

Edna Pikulski

Elizabeth Wolcott

Maitland Minnix

Helen Sinclair

Roger Rambo

Arthur Radice, Jr.

Charlie Cowell

Julia Bylkas

Rita Donovan

Helen Johnson

Ronald Jones

Dianne Mitchell

Sharon Kelly

Edward Dishman

Diosdado Mojica

Denise Hayward